University Industry Collaboration in the Development of PLC Training Material for Use in the Design and Development of Quarry Plant

Year: 2009
Editor: Clarke, A, Ion, W, McMahon, C and Hogarth, P
Author: McKeag, Dennis; Blakley, Jim; Hanson, Nigel
Section: COLLABORATIVE DESIGN
Page(s): 85-90

Abstract

This paper describes programmable logic controller (PLC) training material designed and developed as part of a University Industry collaboration in the form of a knowledge transfer partnership (KTP). The training material discussed includes a low cost PLC trainer, the design and development of a Quarry Plant Simulator (QPS), and a Pilot Quarry Plant (PQP) rig. The training material developed can aid engineers in the design and development of quarry plant, and can be used to support undergraduate basic theory courses, laboratory sessions and workshops in the subject area of programmable logic control. The paper presents first-hand experience associated with developing and using the training material and participating in the KTP programme.

Keywords: Programmable logic controllers, teaching aids, university industry collaboration, knowledge transfer partnerships (KTP)